Mary Robinson meets representatives of women's groups, Abidjan, May 2011
May 2011 visit
In May 2011 Kofi Annan, Desmond Tutu and Mary Robinson travelled to Côte d’Ivoire to encourage reconciliation and healing, following months of post-election violence. The three Elders:
- Discussed with the new President Alassane Ouattara his government’s plans to establish a Commission on Dialogue, Truth and Reconciliation, which he announced on the day of his meeting with the Elders.
- Brought together civil society organisations, including women’s groups seeking a role in the peace process, and encouraged them to work together towards national reconciliation.
- Visited a camp for internally displaced persons and listened to some of the Ivorians who fled their homes during the heavy fighting and were still afraid to return home.
- Met members of political parties still loyal to former president Laurent Gbagbo, whom they also visited in Korhogo, where he was under house arrest.
Kofi Annan returned to the country in January 2012, where he noted some improvements in the economic and security situation, but emphasised that reconciliation had to remain a national priority.
Ongoing work
The Elders continue to monitor closely the political and humanitarian situation in Côte d’Ivoire, support and encourage the reconciliation process, and remain in touch with civil society groups in the country.
